Magical Motor Skills - The Mind Body Connection

In last week’s blog, we discussed the importance of getting outside and enjoying nature. This week’s book list focuses on how parents can create fun activities which will help develop your child's gross and fine motor skills[2]. Many medical and educational experts agree that motor skills support the development of connections between the left hemisphere and right hemisphere of the brain. [3]I hope that you and your child enjoys the suggested activities in these books.

A fresh and timely approach to understanding the profound impact of motor development on children of all ages and stages. Based on the authors' more than seventy combined years of professional success working with children of all abilities, Growing an In-Sync Child provides parents, teachers, and other professionals with the tools to give every child a head start and a leg up. Because early motor development is one of the most important factors in a child's physical, emotional, academic, and overall success, the In- Sync Program of sixty adaptable, easy, and fun activities will enhance your child's development, in just minutes a day. Discover how simple movements such as skipping, rolling, balancing, and jumping can make a world of difference for your child-a difference that will last a lifetime.

Authored by sought-after occupational therapist Jill Mays, Your Child's Motor Development Story is written for everyday parents to help you understand how BEST to help your kids develop motor skills as they grow. Jill demonstrates that sensory motor development not only affects children's ability to organize and attend in their surroundings, but also forms the basis for their emotional well-being. This book will guide you through your child's every movement ... from his or her first little wiggle to their first t-ball game!

Everyday Play: Fun Games to Develop the Fine Motor Skills Your Child Needs for School[6] Christy Isbell.
Organized by age for easy referencing, the dozens of creative activities in Everyday Play are perfect for children aged three to five, and they develop the fine motor skills every child needs for school. More than just an activity book, Everyday Play is full of information for parents, including advice from the author, developmental guideposts, and easy strategies for teaching children important skills. The activities are inexpensive, requiring few or no materials or props. The language is conversational, so parents at every experience level will feel comfortable and capable. But most of all, teaching the skills in Everyday Play provides parents with an opportunity to have fun with their child while laying the foundation for success in school. Activities include: No-Mess Finger Painting Racing Tracks, Squeezy Water Play, and Graph Paper Art Water Droppers. Fine motor skills are a stepping stone for school readiness, and Everyday Play gives parents the tools they need to make developing those skills easy and fun!

This book is filled with practical, age-appropriate activities for newborns and children up to five years old. That being said, I would highly recommend this book for parents with infants. "Why Motor Skills Matter" explains that playful interaction beginning in infancy is crucial to a child's learning abilities, language, speech, and overall emotional balance. The author explains the impact motor skills have on the self esteem of a child, helping parents participate more fully in their child's development.

The eagerly awaited new edition of one of the most trusted and popular books on infant development is here! Completely redesigned, with 50 brand-new games and illustrations, this indispensable book shows you how to build important developmental skills while enjoying time with your baby. Use these everyday activities to nurture and stimulate self-confidence, coordination, social skills, and much, much more. Give your baby a great start with this wonderful collection of over 225 fun-filled games!